Professor Paul Stoddart's research interests include applied optics and biophotonics with projects in the areas of fibre optic sensors, Raman spectroscopy and laser nerve stimulation. This field offers exciting opportunities to apply optical and photonics principles in novel ways, as biological systems respond well to a ‘light touch’. The advantages of non-contact interactions in biomedical applications are illustrated by our use of gold nanoparticles to both stimulate and inhibit activity in the retina, thus paving the way for advanced retinal prostheses. Similarly, spectroscopic techniques combined with compact optical fibre-based platforms are opening up important new oportunities for diagnostics during minimally-invasive surgeries. 

Professor Stoddart has a strong commitment to research translation and has contributed to two startup companies:

• Together with former PhD student Dr Philip Kinsella and colleague Dr Charlie Ranscombe, he founded H3D (formerly Hearables 3D) which is using AI and automation to reinvent the production of custom-fit audio and dental devices. This is now a successful, fast growing company with several large multinational customers.
• Nirtek aims to prevent heart attacks and save lives by detecting unstable coronary plaques using a patented technology known as near infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF). Professor Stoddart received a MedTechVic Challenge Fellowship to support Nirtek as CTO through the proof-of-concept phase of product development, which was successfully completed in 2023. The company is currently raising funding for first-in-human prototypes 

Professor Stoddart undertakes his research in the Applied Optics Group, which works closely with other research groups in Bioengineering and the Nanofabrication Laboratory. He currently coordinates the ANFF-Victoria Biointerface Engineering Hub at Swinburne and was Director of Swinburne’s ARC Training Centre in Biodevices from 2014-2020.

Before joining Swinburne, Professor Stoddart worked on industry-focused surface science and microanalysis problems in a national lab. His academic background includes a PhD in laser spectroscopy from the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa.